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Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta

A creamy, comforting pasta dish featuring tender chicken, smoky paprika, and a rich, flavorful sauce that feels like a warm hug.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine American, Comfort Food
Servings 4 servings
Calories 600 kcal

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 500 g boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces A great source of protein.
  • 340 g fettuccine or pasta of choice Use whatever pasta you love.
  • 1 cup heavy cream Adds creaminess to the sauce.
  • 1 cup chicken broth Homemade or store-bought works.
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese Fresh is preferred for better flavor.
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley For garnish and freshness.
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter For the sauce.
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced Adds aromatic flavor.
  • 1 1/2 lemon, juiced Brightens the flavors.

Spices and Seasonings

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil Extra virgin is preferred.
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika Adds smokiness to the dish.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder For convenience and flavor.
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder Can be omitted if unavailable.
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper Adjust based on heat preference.
  • Salt and pepper, to taste Essential for enhancing flavors.

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
  • In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil and add the seasoned chicken. Cook for 6-8 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Making the Sauce

  • In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and melt the butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute.
  • Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
  • Stir in heavy cream and simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
  • Gradually add the Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.

Combining Ingredients

  • Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and mix well with the sauce.
  • Add lemon juice and chopped parsley, stirring to combine.

Cooking the Pasta

  • Cook pasta according to package instructions, then drain. Add to the skillet with the chicken and sauce.
  • Save a splash of pasta water to help bind everything together. Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly.

Serving

  • Serve the pasta warm, garnished with extra parsley and Parmesan cheese if desired.

Notes

Allow chicken to rest after cooking for juicy results. Use freshly brewed lemon juice for brightness and avoid overcooking the chicken and pasta.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 45gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gSodium: 800mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3g
Keyword Comfort Food, Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta, Creamy Pasta, Easy Recipe, Weeknight Dinner
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